Security Services—Parliamentary Oversight

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Hon. Wilfred P. Moore:

My question is for the Leader of the Government in the Senate. As you know, leader, we on this side are encouraging Canadians to participate directly in our democracy by asking a direct question of our government through you during Question Period. In that light, here is another very good question. This is from Edward Robak of Fredericton, New Brunswick. He has concerns regarding the current government’s approach towards CSIS and RCMP oversight by Parliament. Mr. Robak asks:

Many Canadians are nervous about CSIS and RCMP actions that may be illegal or unethical, but are not given proper oversight by Parliament. Why is there not full oversight by an all-party committee of both of these organizations? Why can’t such oversight be transparent to the public, recognizing that some details may be withheld to protect the innocent?